Frozen in time

SMITHFIELD, LONDON

For many years, it was one of London’s most hidden spaces, open for the odd pre-booked tour, but still a mystery to most beyond its walls. Now the Charterhouse is unveiling a new museum to tell the story of this singular institution. Built in 1371 for Carthusian monks, it was converted in 1611 to an almshouse for those of ‘good testimonye and certificat of theire good behaviour and soundnes in religion’. More than 40 ‘Brothers’ still live here, around peaceful gardens waiting to be unveiled.